FILTERING THROUGH TRAFFIC ON A MOTORCYCLE

IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman, shares tips on how to filter through traffic safely on a motorcycle. No matter if you’re a new rider who’s nervous about filtering, or an experienced motorcyclist, it’s always good to be reminded of the following key tips:

Only filter when the surrounding traffic is moving at less than 20mph, and then only exceed that speed yourself by 10 to 15mph maximum (if safe and legal to do so)

Scan for side turnings and entrances to both sides of the road, and try to keep a car door’s width away from the vehicle you are passing

Obey all ‘keep left’ bollards and also be aware that temporarily stationary vehicles at traffic lights, pedestrian crossings etc. are not classed as parked for the purposes of solid white lines, and therefore you cannot cross a solid white line to filter

Can you see the driver’s face through the window or wing mirrors? Does he look like he’s about to pull out? Always look for evidence that the driver has seen you and comprehends that you are passing them

When filtering to the right side, consider using the ‘stepping stone’ method. Whilst you don’t actually have to move into the spaces, consider which one would be suitable

If you are filtering between lanes, you need to look out for other motorcycles which could possibly be changing lanes or approaching you from the rear

Filtering takes a lot of concentration, so make sure you take short breaks if you’re travelling for a long period of time

Ride at a speed that allows you to react to the movement of other road users and always have an escape route planned in your head

Filtering can sometimes come as a surprise to the person driving behind you, so remain courteous by giving a polite wave of the hand to the driver behind

Think of the size of the vehicle in front of you. Just because there’s a gap, it doesn’t mean you should move into it. For examples, HGVs will need more space and time to manoeuvre than a car would.